CALLOUS thieves barged past a frail 94-year-old widow on her doorstep, ransacking her home and stealing her pension and benefits books as she stood by helplessly.

The grandmother-of-12 had opened the door of her West Howe home in Bournemouth without checking because she thought it was a member of her family.

Police have branded the crime as "despicable" and are now trying to trace the three young men, aged in their 20s, thought responsible for the burglary.

The lady, who lives in a semi-detached house in South Kinson Drive, was left shocked and slightly bruised on one arm, but is said by her 69-year-old son to be in good spirits.

"She has lived at that house for the best part of 70 years and something like this won't get her out," he said. "She still feels very safe there. We normally telephone her if we are popping over but this time she just opened the door.

"She did the right thing by standing back and letting them search the place because that's why she didn't get hurt. She says that she would rather have life than money."

The lady has asked that her identity be kept secret to stop other thieves targeting her.

DC Mark Jenkins of Bournemouth CID said: "To target a frail 94-year-old widow in her own home is a callous and despicable crime.

"I am keen to hear from anyone who recalls seeing or hearing suspicious activity at about 8.30pm in South Kinson Drive near its junction with Moore Avenue on Thursday evening to come forward.

"Please think how you would feel if this burglary victim had been your mother or grandmother. You would want those responsible caught."

If you can help police with their enquiries call 01202 222500 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.